Often overshadowed by the dazzling light and glamour of San Francisco, the East Bay of California nonetheless has much to offer. From the urban bohemia of downtown Berkeley to the tranquility of Tilden Park, the East Bay certainly warrants a drive over the bridge if you're staying in San Francisco for a few days.
One-time epicenter of the free-speech movement of the 1960s, Berkeley is still a place that where free thinking ideas emanate at the University of California. The ultimate West Coast-style college town, Berkeley has a little something for everyone.
For the young and hip, Telegraph Avenue is not to be missed. Berkeley's own answer to the Haight/Ashbury district across the bay, Telegraph is still Berkeley's bohemian heart. Lined with hip clothing stores, exotic food and record shops, Telegraph Avenue also offers some of the best people-watching to be had anywhere.
For the slightly less young, but still hip, College Avenue a few blocks east is a colorful district of nice restaurants, bookshops, antique stores and boutiques. When the weather is warm, College Avenue is perfect for buying a used novel to sit outside and read at a sidewalk cafe.
Follow College Avenue a few blocks south and you will find yourself in Oakland. Don't be put off by the bad rap. Oakland is much like Berkeley in many areas, but with its own unique charms. College Avenue in Oakland has its own great bars, restaurants and antique shops.
Over in the Grand-Lakeshore district, you'll find another thriving neighborhood filled with cafes and restaurants all bathed in the splendor of the historic Grand Lake Cinema, a giant art deco movie house that is splendidly preserved.
To escape from all the urban bohemia, take a stroll around scenic Lake Merritt to put your mind at ease.
High up in the hills above Berkeley is Tilden Park. Known as the jewel of the East Bay park system, Tilden has just about everything you could ask for in a park. Hidden away in its 2,000-plus acres are placid lakes, tree-lined hiking paths, beautiful views, botanical gardens, a carousel and even a train ride.
Pack a picnic lunch and spend a day hiking around Lake Anza while the kids swim or ride the carousel and ponies.
Much of what the East Bay has to offer is just a short drive across the Bay Bridge. Telegraph Avenue is a pleasant walk across the Berkeley campus from the University BART station and College Avenue is adjacent to the Rockridge station.
However, to reach Tilden Park and the Grand-Lakeshore district from San Francisco, you will need a car.
